Home Security: 4 Essential Tips

Protecting your family and your home is one of the top priorities in life. While many of us take our safety for granted, it’s important to understand what level of security is needed to keep you and your home protected.

If you’ve just moved to a new home, you’ll want to ask your realtor or a friendly neighbor about the area. Take the time and research what steps you’ll need to take to keep your home secure. For example, if you notice bars on windows and a lack of outdoor furniture or decor on your street, this may suggest that the neighborhood is prone to break-ins. Do your research and implement the proper steps to match the level of security needed.

Alternatively, if you move into a quiet neighborhood located in the suburbs, you may have less security issues to worry about. This doesn’t mean that crime cannot happen in rural and suburban areas. No matter where you’re located, it’s important to keep security at the forefront of your mind.

Finally, if you have children, strive to make education a top priority. Instruct them to keep doors windows locked and to never answer the door to a stranger. These conversations are critical and should be discussed early and often with your kids.

Alarm systems are the best way to keep your family and home safe. Not only do these systems alert the police as soon as suspicious behavior is detected; they’re also extremely useful in warding off possible intruders.

Change the locks

This simple process can make a huge difference in the long run. Whether you’ve just moved into a new apartment or home, or if you’ve spent the last 30 years residing in the house, an updated lock system is never a bad idea.

Turn the Light on

Give the impression that your house is occupied, even when it’s not. Turn on an outside light or keep an upstairs room lit during night time. Intruders will be far less eager to explore your house if there’s a sign that people are inside. If you’re worried about electricity costs, why not invest in candles or lighting that is powered by the sun. During the day, the lights will charge. At night, you’ll be keeping you property well-lit for free.

Don’t Hide-A-Key

We’ve all considered it. Under the doormat. Inside the mailbox. Behind that ceramic turtle that sits on the porch. Hiding keys in case of an emergency lock-out is not a bad idea in theory, however, intruders will be quick to poke around any obvious hiding spots. If you must hide a key, consider installing a hidden lock box outside. Many of these boxes feature a code to access and can be a more efficient and safer way to stow away your extra key.